Understanding the socio economic and demographic trends of Nandesari industrial area and the nearby villages of Vadodara Gujarat

Demographic research provides critical insights into the composition, distribution, and trends within a population, which in turn shape economic, social, and policy environments. Understanding the demographic landscape is essential for planning and resource allocation, as population characteristics like age structure, education, income, and employment patterns significantly influence sectors such as healthcare, housing, labor markets, and social welfare systems. This study analyzes socio-economic and demographic trends in the Nandesari Industrial Area of Vadodara, Gujarat. The research focuses on key indicators such as socio demographic profile, living conditions, Water and sanitation, Economic, Education and employment status, Agriculture and animal husbandry exploring how these metrics have evolved in response to local industrialization and economic activities. A cross-sectional study design was used to conduct the census-based household survey. Quantitative data was collected from the households using structured questionnaires. The study tool was designed after careful in-depth interaction with stakeholders from different development sectors. Structured pre-tested questionnaire was administered through Android / Computer Assisted Personal Interviews (CAPI). The Field team was trained on study objectives, purpose and CAPI handling. The participants were informed about the study. The confidentiality and privacy of all participants was maintained during the study. Quantitative data from participants was collected using CAPI. Spot checks and back checks were conducted as a measure of quality control. Data was entered into CSPro, and the exported file was further analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. An analysis of quantitative data was done after data cleaning using SPSS software version 28.0. Key findings highlight how industrial expansion has influenced population composition, workforce demographics, and access to basic needs and education workforce demographics, and access to basic needs and education. Some of these local trends are juxtaposed with NFHS-5 data to provide broader context and comparative insights. Around 54.7% Households were found to be nuclear. The mean family size was 4.6. Though LPG was found to be the main cooking fuel in NFHS 5 but in the Nandesari area it was found that only 48% of the household uses LPG as the main cooking fuel. Over 99% of the Household had access to safe drinking water and sanitation. Still 11.5% of people reported to be illiterate though there is shift in primary occupation from contractual labor to Salaried employee. In spite of being an industrial area 25% of the Household reported to have livestock and use that as a secondary source of income. This research offers stakeholders valuable insights into policy formulation. By understanding the distinct needs and challenges of the population of Nandesari, policymakers can create targeted interventions that address gaps in health services, education, employment opportunities, and living standards, contributing to balanced regional development in Gujarat.